Welcome to the second day of our interviews in celebration of Small Charities Week. Yesterday we spoke to the Project Manager of LADPP, Jhon Marulanda, and today we are speaking to the treasurer of the Management Committee, Belky Verduga. Keep looking out for more interviews later in the week!

Belky Verduga - Treasurer of the Management Committee

Belky Verduga, originally from Ecuador, came to the UK 15 years ago to support her daughter. She first came to LADPP around seven years ago and began volunteering as a receptionist. For five years now she has been an active member of LADPP's governing body and is currently the treasurer.

Why did you get involved in LADPP?

I found out about this organisation through a newspaper and I came because I have daughter who is epileptic. At that time, this organisation only helped disabled people. LADPP has helped both my daughter and myself, as after some time, I came to be disabled too; I had an accident. For me, this is my second home because of all the people who work here. I feel that I am still useful and can help my fellow human beings, and it brings me joy to be here sharing my time with people that are disabled and also people who are not disabled: we offer help to all members of the public.

Why do you think that small charities like this one are important?

I believe these organisations are so important for all people from all over the world. Above all, in our case, for Spanish and Portuguese speaking people because we give people the attention they need and are able to help them in one way or another. We have had success helping many people, and we continue helping all Spanish and Portuguese speaking people. We are always ready to help them, and it is satisfying to be able to help my people in some way.

What has been your best moment at the LADPP?

For me, the best moment is everyday when I come in to LADPP to help my fellow citizens, it’s very nice. Working with disabled people, like myself at the moment, who need a smile and support, that is as much physical as spiritual, well, it lifts me each time that someone comes to tell me what’s going on in their life. I too went through some difficult times and when I’m helping people in the same situation I feel like my heart is bursting with happiness because I can offer a little grain of sand of support to those around me.

Translated from Spanish to English by Rosie Morgan, Volunteer Community Project Assistant.